The Manitoba Provincial Kendo Weekend, a martial arts event, is set to take place, hosted by the Tesshin Kendo Club and the Winnipeg Kendo Club. Admission to the event is free of charge.

Kendo, the Japanese martial art known for its blend of physical fitness, mental prowess, and cultural richness, is open to enthusiasts of all ages. It offers a path to self-discovery, not just as a sport but as a lifestyle. The event provides an opportunity for parents to introduce their children to a structured activity that instills discipline, respect, and teamwork. Adults can also find in Kendo a unique fitness regimen that promotes stress relief and personal growth.

The Manitoba Provincial Kendo Weekend is an invitation to join a community where the way of the sword opens doors to physical well-being, mental resilience, and cultural heritage. The event features special guest Dean Ara sensei, a 7th dan Kendo master and Head Coach of Team Canada, who will lead a weekend of Kendo activities in Winnipeg. Participants are encouraged to delve into the culture of Kendo and discover its offerings.

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Dean Ara, head instructor at Renbu Dojo in Burnaby, BC, is a seasoned representative of Canada in international Kendo competitions. He has served as a player, team captain, and coach, leading the women’s national team to a third-place finish at the 17th World Kendo Championships in 2018 in South Korea. Joining him will be Shion Miyashita, the current Canadian National Men’s Champion and Team Canada member from Saint Albert, Alberta, and Betty Park, the Canadian National Women’s Champion from Renbu Dojo.

The event promises a weekend filled with Kendo experiences, open to the public without the need for tickets. The schedule includes:

6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Youth’s Open Practice – Friday, April 5, 2024
Youth (17 yrs old and under) practice. Ara sensei will be leading a youth’s practice and kendo seminar. Come explore what kendo has to offer.

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Open Practice – Friday, April 5, 2024
Open practice for all ages.

9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Manitoba Provincial Tournament – Saturday, April 6, 2024
Manitoba’s 2nd provincial tournament. Explore the world of competitive kendo in Canada!

9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Manitoba Regional Grading/Proficiency Testing – Sunday, April 7, 2024

This event is a chance for individuals to witness and engage in Kendo firsthand, exploring the discipline’s competitive and cultural aspects.